With a cargo bike, anything is possible
Discover the cargo bike
Whether you're a novice or an enthusiast, here you'll find all the tips and tricks you need to choose the ideal cargo bike for your needs. Compare models and learn how to optimize your experience.
What is a cargo bike?
A cargo bike is a type of bicycle specially designed for transporting heavy or bulky loads. Unlike traditional bicycles designed primarily for transporting people, they are equipped with special transport structures, such as platforms, caissons or baskets, which enable users to carry shopping, children, luggage, goods, tools and so on..
In Quebec, the use of cargo bikes has increased over the years, particularly in large cities like Montreal and Quebec City, where cycling infrastructure is expanding and the emphasis is on sustainable mobility. Delivery companies, families and individuals are making increasing use of this type of bike, whether for transporting goods or travelling with children.
How to choose YOUR cargo bike
There are several cargo bike models on the Quebec market. Find out which one best suits your needs, whether it's a recumbent, a scooter or a front-loading cargo bike.
EXTENDED CARGO BIKE 
Extended at the rear, this type of bike can carry heavier loads or several passengers.-ers. Thanks to its shape, it retains maneuverability comparable to that of a traditional bicycle, while offering superior carrying capacity. It's particularly well-suited to families transporting children, or for those who need to move large volumes in a confined space.
TRIPORTEUR 
The tricycle with front cargo box, also known as the three-wheeled cargo bike, offers enhanced stability thanks to its tricycle structure. It features a large box at the front, ideal for transporting heavy loads or several children in complete safety. This model is very popular with retailers-es or parents looking for a safe and spacious means of transport for short distances in urban areas.
FRONT CARGO BIKE 
The front-loading cargo bike (long John) is designed for fast, efficient city use. Its aerodynamic design and low, elongated front body allow it to carry moderate loads while maintaining great agility. This model is ideal for couriers and people requiring fast, flexible transport in dense urban environments.
How much does it cost?
Although the price of a cargo bike varies according to a number of criteria, it remains very affordable compared to the best-selling car models.
Testimonials
As part of our promotional campaign, we've gathered testimonials from six families who have adopted or tested the cargo bike.
Cargo bike test ride
Meet the two families who took part in our trial experience! Thanks to our partner Dumoulin bicyclettes, Ann-Rika and Josiane had the chance to use a cargo bike for 8 months. See how the cargo bike became part of their daily lives.
Ann-Rika - Lévis
Josiane - Quebec
Our cargo bike regulars
Immerse yourself in the world of the four families who have adopted cargo bikes as their mode of transport.
Winter on a cargo bike
Brigitte - Montreal
Summer on a cargo bike
Geneviève - Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu
Spring on a cargo bike
Cécile - Gatineau
Autumn on a cargo bike
Amélie - Montreal
Accessories
Cargo bikes are often equipped with a variety of accessories designed to maximize their utility and versatility. Here are some common examples:
Electric assistance
Electric assistance has become increasingly popular on cargo bikes to facilitate travel, especially when the bike is used to carry heavy loads or cover longer distances. The battery is the key element of this electric assistance, and its maintenance is essential to guarantee the bike's durability and performance.
Cargo box or loading crate
This is the central element of the cargo bike, usually located at the front (front-loading cargo bike) or rear (longtail cargo bike). It's used to transport goods, groceries, children or other passengers.
Child seats
Cargo bikes are often fitted with specially designed seats for transporting children in complete safety, usually installed in the cargo box or on the rear seat. It's also possible to fit a baby carrier. See the Ann-Rika capsule to find out more.
Bags or baskets
For storing and transporting small loads, panniers can be added to the sides of the cargo box or to the rear rack.
Lighting
A headlight and taillight are essential for enhanced visibility, and are mandatory at night. Electric-assist models are generally already equipped with them.
Padlock
A good lock is essential for a cargo bike because of its high value. It deters thieves thanks to its sturdiness, and effectively protects your investment and the goods being transported. For a cargo bike, you may want to add a wheel lock to the traditional U-lock or chain lock. Coupled with the weight of the bike, this lock will make moving the cargo bike more difficult.
Rain protection
Many cargo bike models can be fitted with waterproof panniers or tops, or even cabins to protect passengers or goods from the elements.
Safety on a cargo bike
A cargo bike is considered safe for a number of reasons, depending on its design features and proper use.
Stability
- Rides Three-wheel cargo bikes offer exceptional stability, especially when stationary or at low speeds. The wide base of the three wheels reduces the risk of tipping, even with heavy loads or when embarking/disembarking passengers.
- Front cargo bike and elongatedThese models, although two-wheeled, are often designed with optimum weight distribution, giving them greater stability than conventional bikes when carrying heavy or bulky loads. They are generally fitted with wide-wheelbase kickstands, which provide good stability when stationary, for loading or unloading the bike.
Robust design
- Quality materials Cargo bikes are generally made from robust, durable materials, capable of supporting heavy loads without compromising the bike's structural integrity.
- Reinforced brakes : Because they often carry heavy loads, cargo bikes are equipped with more powerful and efficient braking systems, ensuring a fast and safe stop.
Increased visibility
- Active lighting : Electric-assist cargo bikes are generally equipped with active battery-powered lights. Non-electrified models are often fitted with dynamo lights.
Protected space for passengers
- Secure checkouts Cargo bikes equipped with crates or child seats are designed with safety belts and protective walls to guarantee passenger safety.
- Adapted facilities Child seats are often fitted with harnesses and protective cushions to ensure comfortable, safe transport.
Cargo bikes in winter
Weighing more than an ordinary bike, the cargo bike offers users impressive stability for winter riding. The accessories also provide a windproof space for children to ride in comfort. Read Brigitte's capsule in the Testimonials section.
Toolbox
For private customers
To find out more about cargo bikes, read the article by Vélo Mag dedicated to this subject.
To take advantage of a collective cargo bike and trailer loan service in Montreal, join Locomotion.
Benefit from a subsidy for the purchase of your cargo bike offered by Dumoulin bicycles with the Caisse d'économie solidaire.
For professionals
Benefit from grant the purchase of a cargo bike for professional use thanks to the Écocamionnage program.
To take part in carbon-free delivery, discover the logistics mini-hub project Colibri in Montreal.
To find out more about the state of professional cargo bikes in France, consult the tools provided by Les Boîtes à vélo.
Click here to download the campaign visuals.
